Media Center

U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and John Kennedy (R-LA), and U.S. Representatives Ralph Abraham, M.D. (R-LA) and Garret Graves (R-LA), announced that Louisianans impacted by the 2016 flooding will be eligible to receive Restore Louisiana grants even if they took out SBA loans.

In calls with Cassidy and Kennedy, HUD Secretary Ben Carson confirmed details regarding the upcoming Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) legal guidance needed to implement the duplication of benefits (DOB) fix for 2016 Louisiana flood victims passed by Congress and signed into law by President Trump in October 2018. Secretary Carson also confirmed that the grants can be used to pay off SBA loans.

To ensure families with lower to moderate income receive assistance, those who make below 120 percent of the area-median-income (AMI) will be immediately eligible for the Restore Louisiana grants. Those making above 120 percent AMI will be able to apply for an exemption to receive the grants.

“Today’s news will provide long overdue relief for thousands of Louisianians who were unfairly denied the disaster aid that they deserve,” said Representative Abraham. “The Congressional delegation worked hand-in-hand together to deliver for Louisiana, and I appreciate President Trump for helping us make this happen.”